Bed rails for seniors and other products to help secure a better state of mind

Insomnia is one of the most prevalent sleep disorders. And unfortunately, it becomes even more likely as people age.¹ Older adults may also increasingly contend with pain and other sleep disturbances — which can mean discomfort and awkward trips in and out of bed.

But while sleep problems are common for seniors, they can be alleviated. Indeed, with the proper preparation and products, older adults can maximize their comfort level while also looking out for their safety.²

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Understanding the needs of older adults

It's normal for sleep habits to change with age. For example, as circadian rhythms shift, older adults may be going to bed and waking up earlier.³ Aging can also lead to increased waking, more daytime naps and a decreased duration of deep sleep.⁴

Around 50% of older adults have trouble falling or staying asleep.⁵ This might make it tougher to manage chronic health conditions.⁶ Lack of sleep can also lead to depression and memory loss, as well as increase the risk for falling, which is the leading cause of injuries in adults over 65.^7,8

Along with making certain lifestyle changes — such as avoiding liquids before bedtime and banishing screens from the bedroom — there are certain steps older adults can take to help improve their sleep and make their bed a safer environment.

Types of bed support

Most adults age 65 and older suffer from chronic health conditions. Sometimes these conditions or their treatments interfere with comfortable sleep.⁹ Adding features like support pillows, mattress pads, bed rails and bed alarms can make for a comfier rest and decrease the risk of falls.

Bed rails for seniors

Bed rails can provide both a barrier and a stable handhold for older adults. They can help prevent the person from rolling out of bed and can help with getting in and out of it.

Back pillow, neck support pillow and bed wedge

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)^10,11 and lower back pain tend to become more common with age.¹² Changing the position of the body while sleeping using pillows or wedges may help.

A back or lumbar pillow, for example, may help with muscle and joint pain in the lower back.¹³ A neck pillow may help reduce strain on the neck and back muscles.¹⁴ And a wedge may help keep a person upright while they sleep, reducing complications from acid reflux and other digestive issues.¹⁵

Pillows and cushions can also be used to protect from falls — and add a little extra fluff and snugness to any bed.

There are many options to consider for pillows and wedges.

Mattress pad and mattress topper

Urinary incontinence is a common problem among seniors. Mattress protectors prevent moisture from seeping into the mattress, which otherwise could allow dangerous bacteria to flourish.¹⁶ Mattress pads with sensors are a good idea to alert caregivers that an older person has left the bed when there’s a special concern about falls.

Other bed support considerations

Ambient temperature and humidity are two factors that can affect sleep quality.^17,18 To regulate them, consider using breathable bedding materials — such as cotton or flannel sheets — and a humidifier to the bedroom. Also clear any clutter and loose objects from around the bed, which may increase the risk of falling.¹⁹

Maintaining bed support

Practicing good bed hygiene is important for your health. Dirty bedding can lead to bacterial growth, which is especially dangerous for vulnerable seniors. To ensure that a bed remains not only comfortable but safe, wash bedding often with hot water and use quality bedding material such as breathable sheets, hypoallergenic pillows and waterproof mattress pads.²⁰

It is also vital to regularly clean and disinfect bed rails. When purchasing a bed rail for a bed, buy it new and make sure that it has been approved by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), which regularly alerts consumers about dangerous brands of bed rails.²¹

For a comprehensive overview of what it takes to safely age in place, read more about home safety tips y bathroom support.

Este contenido es solo para fines informativos y no constituye un asesoramiento médico. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.